Barbara Castle dies in her sleep

Former Labour minister Barbara Castle has died, her family announced this evening.

She died peacefully in her sleep with her family at her bedside, Baroness Castle’s family said in a statement.

Mr Blair said: ‘‘Barbara Castle was one of the dominating figures of the Labour movement of the last

50 years, a radical independent spirit and an extraordinary pioneer for women in politics.

‘‘Courageous, determined, tireless and principled, she was never afraid to speak her mind or stand up for her beliefs.

‘‘She was loved throughout the Labour movement and recognised as an outstanding minister in the many high offices she held.

‘‘Even when she left the Commons after a remarkable career, she went on to lead Labour in Europe and to be an effective contributor in the Lords. Right up to her death, she remained a formidable campaigner on behalf of pensioners.

‘‘She leaves behind a legacy of achievement of which any politician would be proud.

‘‘Britain has lost one of its great political figures and the Labour movement a great heroine.’’